EA/Take-Two Follow-ups

Here's some of the inevitable more on EA's efforts at acquiring Take-Two Interactive (story). EA has launched a new website dedicated to the proposed deal, and MCV reports that Take-Two's pre-market stock valuation jumped around 47% this morning on the news of EA's $2 billion bid. Meanwhile, EA: We waited until GTA IV was complete before making $2bn move and Take-Two willing to negotiate with EA after GTA IV release discuss the timing of the move as it relates to Take-Two's marquee franchise. Sports games alone justify EA's Take-Two offer, says Pachter has some analysis from an analyst, and GameSpot offers more from Pachter, who puts his .300 batting average (story) on the line by predicting the move will happen whether Take-Two likes it or not. Meanwhile, GameSpot and Gamasutra each have Q&As on the offer with EA CEO John Riccitiello.